Bacterial conjunctivitis treatment, reviewed by a pharmacist

Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes thicker yellow or green discharge and eyelids that stick together, while viral conjunctivitis tends to cause watery discharge, often alongside a cold. Your online consultation helps identify which is more likely and what treatment fits.

Yes, it can spread easily through contact with discharge from the eye or contaminated hands, tissues or towels. Wash your hands often, avoid sharing towels or pillows, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes until it clears.

It's best to avoid wearing contact lenses until your symptoms have fully cleared, and to replace lenses and lens cases used during the infection to avoid reinfection.

You're generally considered contagious while symptoms and discharge are present. Most people can return to work or school once they no longer have discharge, though some settings may have their own guidance.

Not always, many mild cases clear on their own with good hygiene alone. Your clinician will assess your symptoms and only recommend treatment if it's likely to help.

No, your consultation is handled entirely online. You'll only be advised to seek in-person care if your symptoms suggest something that needs a closer examination.

Gently wipe away discharge with cooled, boiled water and a clean cotton wool pad (a fresh one per wipe, per eye), and avoid wearing eye make-up until it's cleared.